Let’s face it, the neck, head, and legs of a Wild Turkey are not pretty. But, the rest of the bird is magnificent.
Wild Turkey feathers, especially on the males, are a miracle combination of engineering and art. Their chest and back feather vanes and barbs refract the light into an iridescence resembling a fine-tailored suit of chain mail.
Their long primary and tail feathers are colorful, sturdy, and historically were among the best for writing quills, along with goose and swan quills. (We know that the Declaration of Independence was written and signed with quill pens, but are not sure which birds deserve the honor.)
Even today, there is a surprisingly robust market for Wild Turkey feathers for use in arts and crafts – Amazon will deliver them free to Prime customers. See also the image in the first Comment space. (Brooklin, Maine)